Baking Tip: Double-Strength Vanilla

The concept behind double-strength vanilla extract is to craft a high-quality elixir from twice the amount of vanilla beans than are used to make single-strength vanilla. Although the idea is to save a bit of money by using half the amount (i.e. a half-teaspoon equals a full teaspoon), I invariably measure the amount called for, so my recipes are always extra flavorful but not cloyingly so.

I like Penzeys Spices‘ and Denver-based Savory Spice Shop‘s varieties equally, but you can save some change by buying local: Penzeys’ double-strength vanilla extract runs $27.69 for 8 ounces, while Savory’s goes for $22.

Penzeys Spices, 7511 Grandview Ave., Arvada, 303-424-2777

Savory Spice Shop, multiple locations